When was monkeypox vaccine developed? This question is of significant interest as monkeypox, a disease similar to smallpox, has resurfaced in recent years. The development of a vaccine against monkeypox has been a crucial step in preventing and controlling outbreaks of this viral illness. In this article, we will explore the history of monkeypox vaccine development and its significance in modern public health.
The monkeypox virus was first identified in 1958 in monkeys kept for research purposes in the United States. However, it was not until 1980 that the first case of monkeypox in humans was reported. Since then, outbreaks have occurred sporadically in various parts of the world, primarily in central and western Africa.
The development of a vaccine for monkeypox began in the 1970s. In 1977, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared smallpox eradicated, which led to a search for alternative vaccines against similar viruses, such as monkeypox. The monkeypox vaccine was initially derived from the smallpox vaccine, as both viruses belong to the orthopoxvirus family.
In 1986, the first monkeypox vaccine, called the Imvanex vaccine, was developed. It was based on the vaccinia virus, which is the virus used in the smallpox vaccine. The Imvanex vaccine was approved for use in the United States in 2003 and has since been used to prevent monkeypox infections in both humans and animals.
The development of the monkeypox vaccine was not without challenges. Initially, the vaccine had to be produced in cell culture, which was a complex and time-consuming process. However, advancements in technology have led to the development of newer vaccines that can be produced more rapidly and efficiently.
One of the newer vaccines is the Jynneos vaccine, which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019. Jynneos is a non-replicating vaccine that uses a modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vector. This vaccine provides protection against both monkeypox and smallpox, making it a valuable tool in preventing outbreaks of these related viruses.
The significance of the monkeypox vaccine in modern public health cannot be overstated. As monkeypox outbreaks continue to occur, the availability of a safe and effective vaccine is crucial in preventing the spread of the virus and reducing the severity of infections. Additionally, the development of a vaccine has provided hope for the eventual eradication of monkeypox, much like the successful eradication of smallpox.
In conclusion, the monkeypox vaccine was developed in the late 20th century, and its history is marked by significant advancements in vaccine technology. The availability of effective vaccines has been instrumental in preventing outbreaks and improving public health. As we continue to face the challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases, the importance of ongoing research and development in vaccine technology cannot be overstated.
